Winter mountaineering course Chamonix – Level 1
beginner winter mountaineering course in Chamonix
Chamonix is one of the best places to explore the world of winter mountaineering – world-famous climbing routes and stunning high altitude terrain make the Mont Blanc Massif the dream destination for all mountaineers.
Our Chamonix Experience beginner winter mountaineering course is tailored for individuals with no prior winter climbing experience, as well as those looking to refresh their summer alpine skills. You will learn essential mountaineering techniques, including mixed alpine climbing, ice climbing, glacier travel, and avalanche awareness, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Mont Blanc Massif.
Led by our fully qualified UIAGM mountain guides, you will gain hands-on experience with vital equipment such as ropes, harnesses, ice axes, crampons, and avalanche transceivers. Our background in mountain rescue (PGHM Chamonix) ensures that safety is our top priority. We are committed to sharing our expert knowledge, teaching you how to assess your surroundings and navigate the mountains safely.
Our beginner winter mountaineering course runs with small groups, allowing us to tailor instruction to each participant’s needs.
The five-day Level 1 course starts with a skills day focused on glacier travel techniques, ice axe handling and crampon use on steep terrain. In the following two days, you will practice your new skills in small groups, with a day dedicated to ice climbing and another to mixed climbing in the high mountains. The final two days feature climbing teams of two climbers per guide, enabling access to more technical ice climbing routes and opportunities for lead climbing. Depending on conditions, you might tackle longer, more challenging winter routes.
Your guides will select locations based on the best conditions, taking advantage of Chamonix’s unique position near the French, Swiss, and Italian borders. Explore options like the Chamonix Valley, Trient in Switzerland, and Cognes in Italy.
If a five-day commitment isn’t for you, consider our shorter three-day ice climbing course or day trips like the Cosmiques Arete or Aiguilles Marbrées traverse—both classic Chamonix alpine routes. For more experienced climbers, our Progression Winter Mountaineering Course offers five days of intermediate-level climbing and technical instruction across various high alpine terrains in the Mont Blanc Massif and surrounding areas.
Guiding ratios:
- D1 1:6
- D2 1:3
- D3 1:3
- D4 1:2
- D5 1:2
From: 1490 €
Beginner
